Revitalisation of iconic harbourside precinct swings into action

City of Newcastle is progressing the centrepiece of its Harbour Foreshore Masterplan, seeking expressions of interest (EOI) for contractors to deliver the city's largest playground.

The inclusive regional playspace and waterplay area will be located at the western end of Foreshore Park and have a distinctly Newcastle character, paying tribute to the city's Aboriginal heritage as well as its industrial and maritime links.

An artist's impression of the water play area to be created at Foreshore Park

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle was delivering on its commitment to provide enhanced recreational opportunities for the community.

“We know how much our community values open spaces and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and engage in an active and healthy lifestyle," Cr Nelmes said.

"This is why we continue to invest in and deliver a range of local, district and regional level playgrounds to ensure everyone has the opportunity to access quality facilities now and into the future."

The EOI process, which closes 20 August, will enable City of Newcastle to shortlist suitably qualified contractors to proceed to the tendering phase for the design and construction of the new playground and waterplay area.

Work is also underway to enable construction of an accessible amenities building and kiosk that will serve playground users and the broader park.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said these staged works were key elements of the larger Foreshore Masterplan, which will help realise the full potential of the city's premier park and events space.

"Our Harbour Foreshore Masterplan will deliver enhanced connectivity between the city and the harbour's edge around Foreshore Park and along the Joy Cummings Promenade, creating a drawcard destination for locals and visitors from across the region to enjoy," Cr Clausen said.

"The playspace project is a fantastic example of collaboration between City of Newcastle, our community and Touched by Olivia, a charity dedicated to the delivery of inclusive playspaces across Australia.

"It will transform the Harbour Foreshore into a more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community."

The flagship playground project will create a fun, inclusive and intergenerational experience designed to convey distinct Newcastle stories under the banners of trade, exchange, history, culture and environment.

It will feature junior and toddler areas, water and nature-based play areas and quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.

Bespoke playground equipment will add to its unique and unquestionably local character, including a central whale-themed swing area that takes inspiration from a traditional Awabakal story, and an elevated play structure symbolising Newcastle's strong industrial ties.

Extensive tree planting and landscaping will be carried out throughout the precinct as part of the broader masterplan to significantly increase shade canopy and create greener public spaces.

The project is supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children's Charity, Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.